I have been working with computers on a very unprofessional level for as long as I can remember. When I was young, my friends always turned to me when they needed a program installed on their computer. Ever since then I have been the go-to person for computer help in my circle of acquaintances.
In recent years, I have had an increasing interest in system building, putting together computers for friends, family, and myself. In the past six months, I have put together three gaming computers, a video-editing computer, and six home office computers.
F.A.Q.
Are you certified/licensed/insured?
No. I do plan on pursuing a computer repair certification at one point, but for now, you will have to trust my references. As far as licensing, I am currently working freelance, though I plan on making my work an official business in the next year or so.
As far as insurance, I will do my very best to replace a part should I break it, at no charge to you. However, I am putting it on the record here that I am not held legally responsible for a broken component, and my efforts to replace the part come from my own good nature. If I cannot afford to replace the part, I will render you services equal to the current market price of the part. These services will be entirely transferable to your friends and family.
Can you provide any proof that your services are worth the price?
Yes I can! While most of the people I have built computers for are friends and family, I will ask all of my customers to provide me with a testimonial of my work (it is optional, of course). I will put up a separate page for those testimonials when I receive them.
How do I pay you? What are my options?
I now accept cash, checks, and credit/check cards, thanks to the good folks over at Square. If you would like more information on what Square is, feel free to ask me, or browse their website.
I have heard that computer guys can get me X software for free or at a reduced price. Can you do that for me?
No. I am morally and legally obligated to not provide free or discounted software without written permission from that software's creator. I will not illegally download you Photoshop, Windows 7, Sony Vegas, or anything else. I can, however, point you at many, many free alternatives to almost any kind of software.
Can you mod my Xbox 360, PS3, or Wii?
I refuse to modify Xbox 360s or Playstation 3s on principle. I do sometimes play online games on my Xbox 360 and PS3, and I hate seeing people who use their knowledge of software and hardware to cheat, and I will not willingly facilitate that type of play. Wiis, however, are a different story. Wiis can be modified to be used as fully-functioning DVD players, play homebrew video games and applications, and integrated with other computing devices. I am working on my console-hacking skills, and hope that I can provide those functions to Wii-owners in the future.
What do you like to do on your computer?
I love games! My computer is specifically designed to run video games efficiently. I like to pass my time playing games like League of Legends, Grand Theft Auto 4, Dragon Age: Origins, and others.
Since you are not certified for computer work, and are not currently pursuing a computer-related degree, what do you study?
I am currently studying Geology. One day, I aspire to work for the United States Geological Survey. I love working with my hands and getting outside, into the mountains, rivers, and plains of the world just as much as I like fiddling with electronics.
If your question has not been answered, or you are still not fully confident in my abilities, feel free to shoot me an email. I'd be happy to answer any questions.
